Independence Drive

June 5, 1985

PARIS — The National Assembly approved a bill Tuesday that would divide the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia into four autonomous regions and called for a referendum on independence by the end of 1987. The conservative and centrist opposition, as well as the Communists, voted against the Socialist-sponsored measure. The Territorial Assembly in New Caledonia, controlled by conservatives, also has opposed the bill. Next step: The bill goes to the Senate.